optional:Thing is, aren't soundtracks in most American films equally arbitrary and out-of-place? I mean, we don't notice them because we're so used to them, but they're actually similar in that they're totally unrealistic. While they can enhance a mood, most films would not be harmed by their removal.

Soundtracks are non-diegetic. Musical numbers are diegetic. Huge, huge difference. Musicals in general are quite an anomaly in film as they nearly always shift the tone from realistic to fantastic for the song, then back again. I can't think of any other formal film structure with that severe a tonal shift incorporated into it for anything other than shock value.

Saw Slumdog with my wife. While not the greatest movie ever done, it was entertainment and a decent story. Not boring--the greatest sin in movie making. Freida Pinto was cast in a not too demanding role but performed that role well. What I mostly remember is her face. She has the most beautiful face. It is like looking into the sun. The exact opposite of butterface. If you can look at a close up of Freida Pinto and not be moved (in your pants), you might need an appointment with Marcus Bachmann.